The faceted ruby holds a dark purple that shifts in intensity depending on the angle of view - the facets catch the light in small flashes, without scattering the colour into brightness. This play of shadow and shine works well in a small, restrained form: the band stays narrow and smooth, keeping all the attention on the stone. The very small size of the stone and the light construction make this ring a promise ring - a modest shape, but distinct in character.

Only a small portion of the reviewed raw material makes it into a setting like this - what matters is the depth of colour and the clarity of the ruby, the rest is rejected already at the selection stage. Silver and good coloured stones are getting more expensive, so buying at today's price makes sense. The rhodium coating on the silver forms a hard, resistant layer that protects the surface from tarnishing and scratches, keeping the shine bright for years to come. Refined European 925 silver is a pure alloy free of nickel, the metal most often responsible for skin irritation, so the ring does not cause irritation. Silver stamped with the French maker's mark attests the origin of the metal and the craftsmanship behind its making.

A ring like this pairs well with an understated evening look - a little black dress or a silk blouse, where the hand remains practically the only place adorned with jewellery. In a simple gesture, when the hand lifts a glass or smooths the hair, the dark purple of the ruby draws the eye more strongly than many a larger stone. Cool grey or deep black in an outfit sets off this colour well, without taking away from its depth. This is a ring that suits moments of particular significance, when the form should be modest and the message clear.